We seem to see more and more images of ‘leading’ politicians. Some of these politicians’ pictures are the output of photojournalists. Many, however, are taken by retained photographers apparently in the employ of the Government or individual MPs seeking to enhance their own reputations.

Both types of photograph, in their respective ways, have a valid role. Genuine news images inform about developments of public interest. The output of retained photographers working for the Government or individual parliamentarians is more likely designed to convey a specific ‘message’ that supports a policy or image which the subject wishes to promote.

The latter group can be seen as broadly similar to the hundreds of thousands of pictures used by PR companies on behalf of their clients and intended to promote everything from industrial widgets to celebrities. Even when presented in an editorial context, these pictures are usually readily recognisable to the discerning eye as ‘promotion’ or ‘advertising’. The same is true of many of the photographs issued on behalf of politicians, rather than those taken of them by photojournalists. If you are looking, it is not hard to spot the ‘posed’ shot.

It seems there is, however, one significant difference between many of the images of politicians and the promotional output of PR companies. PR companies are retained by clients who pay for their services. The clients ultimately pay for the photographs. Reportedly, this is not necessarily the case with our politicians – apparently, sometimes it is the tax payer who is footing the bill.

This might be acceptable if the images in question help convey serious and truthful information on Government activities and policies for the public good. On the other hand, the tax payer should not be forking out to promote the personal ambitions of individual politicians.

Next time you spot one of those political/ministerial promotional shots – here I am with lots of flags, working hard at my desk or striking a power pose to demonstrate my gravitas – take a moment to consider who might have paid for the picture and whether you would have preferred your money to have been spent in a different way.

mfimage